You always hear of people shopping small and supporting local businesses. But why? Why should one shop at their local store versus going to the big box store like Walmart or Target? Let me share some of my thoughts with you.
Most people say they shop small to support people in their community. Makes sense right? These small businesses employ and support your neighbors, family and friends. For every $100 spent at a small business, $68 of that is put back into the local economy. Small businesses tend to support their local community and give back more than any other business. If you wish there was coffee shop in your small town then one finally opens, support + buy from them vs. going to Starbucks or Caribou. Because lets face it, they will be fine but your favorite local shop may not. They need your $6 more than Starbucks does. You as a consumer is the one and only way a small business can make it and thrive. I think shopping small starts with changing your mindset and intentions.
Small businesses tend to be more sustainable also. Most small business use eco- friendly products, reusable materials, and use higher quality goods that are better for our environment and will help us long term. Here at Home + Hems I use 100% recycled packaging to help cut down on cost for my consumers + myself, increase water conservation, plus it is more environmentally friendly. It is estimated that when 1 ton of cardboard paper is recycled, about 12-17 trees are saved, which further preserves the ecosystem in general. These steps are easy to do and can make a big difference.
Another positive of shopping local is that you see the face behind the product or company. An actual human being is preparing and packing your order, not a robot. When something is purchased online from Amazon, or any big box store, you don’t know who is behind the product or what their values are. Just think of it like your friends. Why are you friends with certain people? Because you have the same values, morals, thoughts, and you just plain like them, that is why you get along. So think of local shops like your friends. Support them, buy from them and help them with their passions that line up with yours!
So this holiday season try to do as much small business shopping as you can. The community, environment, and owner will appreciate it!
~Katie